SCIENTIFIC TECHNICIAN GRADE A/B/C (BIOCHEMISTRY –ANALYTICAL SERVICES)

This position is for a Scientific Technician specialising in Biochemistry within the Analytical Services unit, based at Cedara Research Station in KwaZulu-Natal. The role is an Occupation Specific Dispensation (OSD) graded post within the provincial public service, offering a structured career path for a technician with a strong background in laboratory science. The successful candidate will work within a scientific environment that supports agricultural research, regulatory compliance, and analytical service delivery, contributing to the broader objectives of the department through reliable laboratory analysis and technical expertise.

To be considered, applicants must hold a National Diploma or Diploma at NQF Level 6 in Biochemistry or an equivalent qualification, and they must be registered with the South African Council for Natural Scientific Professions (SACNASP) as a Certificated Natural Scientist. A valid driver’s licence is also required, along with at least three years of post-qualification technical scientific experience in an analytical laboratory setting. The role demands a solid working knowledge of the Occupational Health and Safety Act, laboratory quality control practices, analytical instrument calibration, statistical analysis, and the ISO 17025 standard. Familiarity with labour legislation and public service frameworks, including the Labour Relations Act, Public Service Act and Regulations, the Basic Conditions of Employment Act, departmental HR policies, and the Employee Performance Management and Development System, is also essential. The ideal candidate will possess a blend of technical and generic skills, including project management, scientific methodology, data analysis, technical report writing, legal compliance awareness, mentorship, decision-making, team leadership, communication, and customer focus.

The core duties of the post are wide-ranging. The technician will be responsible for developing and implementing methodologies, policies, systems, and procedures to support the analytical services unit. This includes performing technical scientific analyses and carrying out regulatory functions in line with established standards. The role also involves providing technical support and advice to internal stakeholders and clients, contributing to research and development initiatives, and participating in human capital development by mentoring and developing junior staff or students within the laboratory environment. The work requires a high level of professional judgement, creativity, and problem-solving ability, as well as meticulous attention to quality assurance and compliance.

Applicants should note that this is a public service position subject to the department’s recruitment and selection processes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to undergo pre-entry assessments, including a practical exercise to determine technical and generic suitability for the post, as well as an integrity assessment. It is the responsibility of applicants to have any foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority. The department is committed to upholding the principles of the Constitution and public service regulations, and appointments are made in line with applicable employment equity targets and affirmative action measures. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated biochemistry technician seeking to apply their analytical expertise within a government research and service environment.